Efficacy of erythropoietin for the late treatment of anemia of prematurity in a level IV neonatal intensive care unit: A retrospective single-center cohort study

Abstract Objective To determine the average change in hematocrit (Hct) after erythropoietin administration for the treatment of anemia of prematurity and describe the population in which erythropoietin is being utilized. Study Design This retrospective chart review study included infants who received erythropoietin for the treatment of anemia of prematurity. Results There were 132 infants representing 162 unique treatment courses included in the study. The average change in Hct was 6.2% (SD 3.9%, p<0.001). The average duration of therapy was 9 days (±7) and 6 doses (±2). Rise in Hct was associated with a higher number of EPO doses (P<0.001) and higher postmenstrual age (p<0.001). In our small cohort we did not find an association between the number of rEPO doses and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) requiring treatment. Conclusion Erythropoietin is safe and effective at treating anemia of prematurity as evidenced by a clinically and statistically significant increase in Hct from baseline.